Scandinavia

 

With beautiful, bold scenery and famous capitals bordering the Baltic Sea, Scandinavia is an appealing cruise region. This section covers the major ports in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. Iceland is also part of Scandinavia, as are Greenland and the Faeroe Islands, which are self-governing Danish dependencies.

Scandinavia is the land of rugged fjords and medieval fortresses built on rocky islands. Many a Viking king and Arctic explorer have set off from the shores of these Nordic nations, now admired worldwide for their modern design in everything from home decor to high fashion.

The Scandinavian approach to life can be summed up in the Danish term hygge (pronounced who-ga) which derives from the Old Norse word hugga (to soothe) and is likely the origin of the English word ‘hug.’ During the Christmas season, in the depths of a dark Scandinavian winter, the ancient traditions of hygge are reflected in the multitude of candles glowing in people’s homes and the aroma of hot gløgg (a Scandinavian mulled wine) wafting from kitchens and cafés. But hygge doesn’t end with the Christmas season. It’s practised on a daily basis – in the attention given to ordinary activities, such as serving a meal, and the value placed on leisure time spent with family and friends.